FAAN announces temporary shut down of Enugu airport, gives reason

The Akanu Ibiam International Airport in Enugu has been temporarily closed to allow emergency rehabilitation work on a damaged section of the runway, according to the Federal Airports Authority of Nigeria (FAAN).

The airport will remain closed for a two-week period, from April 22 to May 6, following what officials described as a “sudden and serious rupture” on a critical part of the runway surface.

FAAN’s Director of Public Affairs and Consumer Protection, Mrs. Obiageli Orah, announced the closure in a statement released on Saturday in Lagos.

“In compliance with the Nigerian civil aviation regulations, FAAN has, therefore, closed the runway during this period,” she said.

“As part of FAAN’s commitment to passenger safety and modernisation of airport facilities, the runway will not be open for landings or takeoffs during the rehabilitation period.

“FAAN appeals to all airport users and stakeholders for their understanding and cooperation during this time. All flights to this airport will be diverted to nearby airports.

“The authority apologises for the late and unexpected notice regarding the closure.”

The closure has prompted major domestic airlines, including Air Peace and United Nigeria Airlines, to suspend their operations to Enugu.

Chibuike Uloka, spokesperson for United Nigeria Airlines, issued a statement on Saturday apologising to passengers affected by the disruption, which comes during the Easter holiday period.

“As a result, we have rescheduled your flights for today, April 19, to operate to and from the Chinua Achebe Airport, Anambra, should this be convenient for you,” Uloka said.

“Passengers willing to travel through Anambra Airport are kindly advised to be at the airport at the scheduled flight time.”

Dr. Ejike Ndiulo, Head of Corporate Communications at Air Peace, also confirmed that flights into and out of the Enugu airport had been suspended to allow the repair works to proceed without interference.

“We regret to inform you that all flights scheduled to Akanu Ibiam International Airport, Enugu are temporarily suspended due to safety concerns,” he said.

“The situation of the Enugu runway has been causing major disruptions to Air Peace flights, hence the decision to temporarily suspend further flights into this airport until further notice.”